Phenomenological Analysis of Positive Aspects of Post-Divorce Growth in Divorced Women in Tehran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Professor of Women and Family Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences and Economics, Alzahra University , Tehran, Iran.

2 Master's Degree in Personality Psychology, North Tehran Azad University, Tehran. Iran.

3 Master's Degree in Women and Family Studies. Faculty of Social Sciences and Economics, Al-Zahra University. Tehran. Iran.

4 Graduated from the Master of Women and Family Studies. Faculty of Social Sciences and Economics, Alzahra University, Tehran. Iran.

Abstract

Introduction: While stressful life events are typically associated with negative outcomes, such as psychological distress and mental health disorders—including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—emerging research suggests that these experiences may also foster resilience and provide unique opportunities for personal growth. The concept of Post-Traumatic Growth (PTG) refers to the positive psychological changes that occur as a result of struggling with highly challenging life circumstances.
 
Method: In light of the existing research gap regarding the positive effects of divorce on women, this study aimed to explore the factors contributing to post-divorce growth among divorced women. Employing a phenomenological research design, the study sample consisted of women who self-reported experiences of personal growth and scored at least two standard deviations above the mean on the Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), developed by Tedeschi and Calhoun. Participants had been divorced for at least three years by 2023. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and theoretical saturation was reached after interviewing 15 participants. Purposeful sampling was employed, and the data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method.
 
Results: The analysis of the interviews resulted in the extraction of 18 subcategories and five overarching themes. These themes were: (1) personal development and transformation, (2) social growth, (3) attainment of independence, (4) shifts in attitudes and perspectives, and (5) enhanced self-care practices.
 
Discussion and Conclusion: The findings indicate that, following the acceptance and processing of the distress associated with divorce, women can achieve significant post-divorce growth and flourishing over time. This growth is mediated by both internal and external factors, including religious beliefs, family support, personality traits, and the adoption of growth-oriented strategies such as crisis management, problem-solving skills, interpersonal relationship management, self-care practices, and the utilization of environmental resources. These results provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners working in the fields of women's welfare and family support services.

Keywords

References

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